When we turn a property, we have the move-out inspection report with pictures (available to the owner) and the repair bids are provided to the owner before any work is initiated. 

Depends on the state.Many states start the bidding on taxes owed and go up from there.

I'd get a bid and run a cost/benefit analysis comparing to other properties.

How many bids?

It's tough to be a Buyer's Agent in this market, doing your job six to 10 times over just to get a deal actually inked, with multiple bids the first day or two.

But here in upstate NY if it's a town/city/county tax lien auction & you win the bid there is no redemption, assuming the city/town then approves the bid.

It's one thing if you were out bid but unless this was MLS, it might be hard to get in this position again for a new investor without leads

Almost ever single time I see people bid way more than I think they should, I'll ask them what the plan is for the property after the auction. 

I really don't know how much the bids are going for nor is the listing agent legally bound to let me know the honest offers received so far.Any help would be appreciated!

., tax lien) is sold at auction, are charged 18% per annum.197.432    Sale of tax certificates for unpaid taxes.(6) Each certificate shall be awarded to the person who will pay the taxes, interest, costs, and charges and will demand the lowest rate of interest, not in excess of the maximum rate of interest allowed by this chapter. [...]Translation: Florida is a bid-down interest rate state.